TranslateHello Parents and Caregivers!
During February, Essex Public School and Hawthorne II recognized African Heritage Month in many colourful ways.
The month was kicked off with “Black History Music Moments” on the PA system. Each morning, a song would be played by an African American/Canadian performer. Students got a short history in music, from Scott Joplin up to present artists, like Drake. A student would then read an announcement about the artist.
Next, on February 6th, storyteller Kalale Dalton spoke to all Essex primary students from K-2. She captured the attention of her young listeners with great stories and legends. Artist Cyesha Ford came to the school to do art/writing workshops with the grade 7 and 8 students. She will make an art installation for the front foyer with the students’ work – coming soon!
The month was celebrated with a Recognition Assembly, led by several teachers and students. Classes presented their work on African Heritage month. Ms. Da Costa’s grade 7 and 8 students celebrated African Heritage with a history of African American dance followed by a swing dance presentation. Ms. Cervinka’s class created posters based on Martin Luther King’s “I have a Dream” speech . Ms.Tanya Bates’ class from Hawthorne presented a slideshow of their work on equity, which was pictures and words, accompanied by the Sam Cooke song, “A Change is Gonna Come.”
A very special thank you to parent Marlon Merrano who made many of these presentations possible by introducing us to the artists, storytellers and dancers. And a special thank you to Essex school council for funding the storyteller and artist!
Please see attached photos!
